DOCTOR Alistair Gascoigne has treated thousands of cancer patients over his career.

As assistant medical director at Newcastle’s Royal Victoria Infirmary, he’s seen first hand the vital support that Macmillan Cancer Support give to his patients and their families.

Now he’s taking on 10 Lake District peaks to raise cash for the charity’s life-changing work.

The 54-year-old said: “I have a very high regard for the care Macmillan give.

“Sadly, working in an acute medical ward I see patients who are in the terminal stages of their illness. Many prefer to be in their own home rather than a busy medical ward and the Macmillan team is often involved in looking after them. I know for a fact that families are very grateful for that care, as well as the patient themselves.

“They take a very holistic approach to care which encompasses the whole family. They touch people in a way that people remember.”

Dr Gascoigne, a retired rugby player and keen hillwalker, is taking part in the Satmap 10 Peaks 74k event for Macmillan later this month.

He will attempt to scale Helvellyn, Bowfell, Great End, Ill Crag, Broad Crag, Scafell Pike, Scafell, Great Gable, Pillar and Skiddaw, all within a single day.

The leg-sapping walk will see the doctor walk 74km and tackle 5,600m of hill climbs.

In 2010, 52 people took on the challenge, but not one completed it. Last year only about half of those who started got to the end.

But Dr Gascoigne, who has been a consultant at the RVI since 1996 and lives in Killingworth, North Tyneside, believes he is “obstinate enough” to keep going to the end.

“I am no fell runner, but I like a bit of a challenge,” the medic said, his determination boosted by an example of Macmillan’s impact.

“I was out in the lakes and started talking to another walker. I told him I was training for this event for Macmillan.

“He took £20 out of his wallet and asked me to add it to my sponsorship. He said his sister had been supported by Macmillan.

“I have the money in a drawer with his phone number and I hope to call him at the end.”